(a) whether as per the ‘Food Waste Index Report 2021’, released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 50 kg of food per person per year is being wasted in India, which is one of the highest in the world;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has set some time bound target to curb the food wastage problem; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
THE MINISTER OF STATE
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY)
(a) to (d) : As per Report titled “Food Wastage Index Report 2021” released by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in the month of March, 2021, household food waste estimate in India 50 Kg/ capita/year which is less than that in many developed countries.
Government has carried out publicity campaigns through print and electronic media from time to time sensitize people against food wastage. In addition, States/UTs were advised by the Central Government to include a chapter on prevention of food wastage in the school syllabi in order to inculcate awareness among young students and sensitize them on the subject.
Further, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a social initiative known as “Save Food Share Food” to help promote donation of surplus food and reduce food waste by integrating various food distribution agencies and other stakeholders. FSSAI has also notified Food Safety and Standards (Recovery and Distribution of Surplus Food) Regulations, 2019 which specify the responsibilities of food donors and surplus food distribution organizations so that the donated food remains safe for human consumption.
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